Model of a large moaro hut

Reference : 1506

On a wooden base, the circular hut features a central post surrounded by posts forming the main frame.
Double strapping surrounds a straw frame;
all tied with dogfish hair ties.
The entrance, closed by a dog hair curtain, is framed by two carved doorframes.
On either side of the doorframes is a decoration made of dogfish hair and shells.
The floor is covered with a braided mat.
The steeply pitched, conical roof is made of rafters and thatched with straw.
The ridge arrow of a simple sculpture is entwined with a string of dogfish hair to which a shell is attached.
Height: 78cm
Base diameter: 35cm
Early 20th century

An old label plus a handwritten inscription bear the same collection number on the base “2238” a second label bears the number “50”.
Old ink inscription under the base: “Hubert Omei”, possibly the author of this scale model.

Source :
Former Stéphane Mangin collection
Former Alain Marini collection

Price: €1,750

More details

Published and reproduced in
The ancestral art of the Kanak. Musée des Beaux Art de Chartres,
June 6-September 27, 2009. Exhibition catalog, page 56

A similar model, from the Berthoud collection, kept at the Musée de Douai but unfortunately destroyed during the bombardment of August 11, 1944, is reproduced in plate I in G-H. Luquet, 1926.
A second model of similar size, collected during the Korrigane expedition, is kept at the Musée du Quai Branly (Inv 711938.36.8).

The Grande Case Moaro was the focal point of the village, around which all the other dwellings were organized.
It was built by all to be handed over to the Elder (chief).
No one lived there, but it served as a meeting and reception place for the men.
It was the symbol of the chief’s power and one of the strongest representations of Kanak society.
A meeting place, a sacred space, it was above all the heart of the community.

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